Book Review: "The Ancient Path," by John Michael Talbot

From the inside of the cover jacket:

"The First Epistle of Saint Peter," writes Talbot, "tells us that we are a spiritual temple built of 'living stones.' The early Church Fathers represent the first rows built upon the foundation of the apostles. And that sacred building project continues throughout history to our time today. But it rests on the Fathers. It depends on them."

I was intrigued by the subtitle "Old Lessons from the Church Fathers for a New Life Today," which includes St. Augustine.

And I was hoping this was going to put the teachings of said Church Fathers into modern prose so they would be easier to ingest. (Especially since, as a mom of three children, it is hard for me to find enough time alone to have a coherent thought, let alone to be awake sufficient enough for comprehension.)

I am disappointed. This is more a book about the author's journey from being a Protestant to becoming a Catholic. It does contain much scripture, but it also contains Catholic doctrine--doctrine which I believe is extra-biblical (such as Mr. Talbot's annulment of his first marriage by the Catholic church, because the Catholic church determined it was not a "valid" marriage, even though he had a child by his first wife).

That being said, this is an interesting and well-written read. If you are familiar with John Michael Talbot's music, and you would like to get to know his spiritual story (and explore some Catholic doctrine), then this is the book for you. It is not something one would purchase simply as a spiritual reference book.

Disclosure:  I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.